" This is the power of gathering: it inspires us, delightfully, to be more hopeful, more joyful, more thoughtful: in a word, more alive.”

Alice Waters

This morning I went to the markets, walking through the park and then back along the street. It was a gorgeous day: sunny, blue skies, with a promising hint of coolness tucked away in the shadows.

There were people everywhere.

They were watching little tackers play football; setting up for birthday parties; chatting with other dachshund owners; queuing to buy coffee and vegan cakes and avocados 6-for-2-dollars.

They were gathering.

I was reminded once again of why love being involved in a profession that helps create the most democratic parts of our cities - the public parks and plazas and streets - the places where everyone is welcome.

I love seeing people gather and embrace life in the public realm, and in light of recent tragic events in cities around the world, I hope we continue to show up, to participate, and to gather.

The Portland Farmers Market at Portland State University.

Suitcase Rummage at Brisbane Square.

Quai de la Tournelle, Paris.

The Flood Control Monument, Harbin.

Outside the Pantheon, Paris.

River Quay, Southbank Parklands, Brisbane.

Big-scale patience: Forbidden City, Beijing.

Small-scale patience: waiting in line to visit a Frank Lloyd Wright house in Oak Park.

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Midawarr : Harvest is a stunning collaboration between artists Mulkuṉ Wirrpanda and John Wolseley. Meeting every harvest season for five years, they used a variety of painting and printmaking techniques to document the rich plant life on Yolηu country. @melbournemuseum #landscape #plants #printmaking